The work of Rex Ray makes me happy. The San-Fran based fine artist (and also heralded graphic designer) started his collage works by cutting up magazines (if you’re a mag-hoard like I once was, this is so liberating) and then began to experiment with printing and colouration techniques on various papers as source materials. His collages are assembled
on plywood or canvas and then sealed with epoxy. Makes it sound simple, huh? The resulting works are these shimmering, lively neo-pop wall-candies. Some of his works remind me of one of my most favourite illustrators, Aya Kato.

Rex Ray’s works are sold at the online store of Jonathon Adler, which is also very deserving of special mention, not the least because of his manifesto:

” We believe minimalism is a bummer.

We believe handcrafted tchotchkes are life-enhancing.

We believe tassels are the earrings of the home.”

Also, I can’t argue with his terribly fun, pop-chic wares such as his scroll wallpaper,
needlepoint pillows, union-jack rugs, collage cushions and ‘curiosities’ such as the large leather rhino (and other pets).